COMMUNITY INVESTMENT

Our Community Investment Process

Our Community Investment Process allows United Way to invest in the most pressing and complex human and social needs facing our community. Each year, we accept applications for funding in one of three priority areas: Poverty To Possibility, Strong Communities and All That Kids Can Be. Applications are evaluated by our panel of dedicated volunteers to ensure that our donors contributions are invested where they can create the greatest impact.

Raising of Funds

United Way annually raises funds through our campaign to support the Investment Process. Funds are raised through donor partnerships, workplace campaigns, community members, corporate donations and through special events and grants.

Host Community Consultations

United Way acknowledges that our community’s needs change. We host community consultations and participate in community conversations to inform our Investment Process, help United Way respond to changing needs and determine funding priorities.

Review Funding Applications

A panel of community volunteers dedicate many hours meeting with local agencies to learn more about their proposed programs and review applications. The panel team conducts these evaluations to determine how available funds should be invested in the community.

Funding Recommendations

The Community Investment Panel submits their funding recommendations to the Board of Directors for approval ensuring a transparent and meaningful review of the Community Investment Process.

Investments

After a rigorous review process, United Way formalizes the investment in impactful programs and services in Niagara. We provide stable, three-year funding investments to support our most vulnerable citizens.

Lives Changed!

United Way Niagara’s investments are changing the lives of children, youth and families, seniors, people living with disabilities, marginalized adults and at-risk individuals across our community. We strive to invest in the most impactful programs and services that improve the quality of life of people in Niagara.

Our Priorities

United Way Niagara works locally to raise funds and invest in programming that improves lives in our community.

Our goal is to improve lives and build community by engaging individuals and mobilizing collective action. What does that mean? United Way invests funds into pre-determined priority areas that were deemed to have the most need nationally. We invest in solutions to real, local social problems.

All That Kids Can Be

United Way invests in programs that encourage children and youth to reach their full potential by:

  • Increasing connectedness
  • Increasing engagement in learning, and

  • Increasing emotional and physical wellbeing

To learn more about United Way’s investments, refer to the All That Kids Can Be Framework